Tshethar Ritual - Offering the gift of life

Spiritual rituals, also called pujas, are part of life in many Asian and other indigenous traditions. They are celebrated throughout the cycle of the year, to enhance positivity, dissolve obstacles, and to find clarity and guidance in times of uncertainty. In the West, rituals have largely vanished, together with the natural approach to spiritual practices. To aid the current challenges of our time Tulku Khyungdor Rinpoche performs these beneficial practices for people from all backgrounds. Want to read more?

Everyone respectful towards life is welcome to take part in the ritual. While the framework of the Tshethar ritual is Buddhist, its meaning - the appreciation of life - is universal.    

The event will take place in the park regardless of the weather, promising an unforgettable outdoor experience. Seating is available, but you are welcome to bring your own blankets. Enjoy the July evening sun which can get quite intense – sunscreen, a hat or a parasol might be advisable. And be sure to dress warmly to prepare for the evening chill. This year the midges are very active, so bring mosquito repellent with you.

The event is a real highlight for children. When the fish are released, they are often the first to help and are eager to fetch water and watch the fish. The atmosphere during the ritual is very relaxing - just bring a blanket so that the little ones can sleep or play in between. The little river flows through the park and offers plenty of opportunities to play in and around the water. The ritual is a lovely opportunity for a trip into the countryside and to let children experience their connection to nature. 

During this ritual, thousands of brown trout are released into the River Würm. Thanks to the cooperation with local authorities and fish breeders, we ensure appropriate fish transport. The trout, from a local fish farm and accompanied by an experienced breeder, are carefully selected each year based on expert recommendations. To help them acclimate quickly, the transport containers are enriched with fresh Würm water. The fish spend minimal time in the mobile tank, with attention to temperature, oxygen, and density.  Typically, young trout are chosen as they adapt better and are protected for many years during which they are not allowed to be caught. At the end of the ritual, the lively fish jump excitedly in the tank, indicating good health. 

The Würm is the only drain of the Starnberger See, which was called Würmsee until 1962. It rises at the north-eastern end of the lake near Starnberg and finally flows into the Amper near Dachau. But the Würm is more than just a river - it also feeds the North Munich canal system, Nymphenburg Palace and Schleißheim Palace. Even the water in Nymphenburg Palace Park and the Olympic Lake in the Olympic Park has its source in the Würm. 

In recent years, beavers have once again settled along the Würm. The Würm offers some fish species the rare opportunity to reproduce naturally. In 2013, a major renaturation project began in Gauting to restore the Würm, which had previously been constricted like a canal, to its natural state.  By releasing the fish during the Tshethar, we are contributing to a balanced ecosystem of the Würm – as local experts have informed us. 

The venue, Park Schloss Fussberg, is easy to reach by public transport, car, bicycle or on foot, depending on where you live.

When you enter the park area through the main entrance (street "Am Schlosspark"), follow the path towards the Schloss. You will pass by a restaurant and the Remise. The ritual takes place directly behind the Schloss.

For more details on how to get there, download the pdf.